Fifth edition of CII J&K Apple Conclave held in Srinagar

Srinagar: Following the success of previous editions, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) J&K hosted the 5th edition of the CII J&K Apple Conclave 2025 on Wednesday in Srinagar.

This year, the conclave centered on the theme of “sustainability, innovations and inclusivity,” reinforcing a strong commitment to transforming Kashmir’s apple sector through innovative and sustainable practices.

The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including the Chief Guest, Javid Ahmad Dar, Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative, and Election Departments, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the event, Dar underscored the crucial role of collaboration in the agricultural sector, stating, “It is essential that we leverage our resources and unite our efforts to achieve transformative change in our agricultural practices.”

He focused that our farmers are a backbone for our apple economy and our government is committed to uplifting this economy.

He commended CII J&K for organising these conclaves, which have a significant impact on our industry. Sustainability and innovation are not merely objectives; they are our duty to the future generations of Kashmir.

The Guest of Honour, Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Kashmir, also addressed the audience, highlighting the role of education and research in agriculture.

He remarked, “Investing in knowledge and technology is crucial for enhancing the productivity of our orchards. Our farmers deserve the tools and training that will allow them to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.”

Izhan Javeed, Convener, CII J&K Horticulture & Food Processing Panel, expressed optimism about the sector’s future, stating,

The CII Apple Conclave serves as a vital platform to foster meaningful dialogue among stakeholders and shape the policy roadmap for the future of the apple economy. Sustainability must guide our policies, innovation must drive our growth, and inclusivity must ensure that every stakeholder benefits from this transformation.

Dawar Ashraf Mir, Co-Convener, CII J&K Horticulture & Food Processing Panel, added, “It is inspiring to see so many passionate individuals coming together to support the apple industry. Our goal is not only to sustain our heritage but also to innovate and adapt to the changing dynamics of the market. Together, we can create a vibrant future for Kashmir’s apple growers.”

The conclave attracted a diverse range of participants, including apple growers, policymakers, researchers, agri-tech innovators, and industry leaders. It served as a premier platform for dialogue and collaboration, fostering discussions on sustainable practices in fruit cultivation, the use of technology, and the promotion of inclusivity in the agricultural sector.

Other notable speakers and dignitaries include Sartaj Ahmad, Director of Agriculture, Government of J&K, Javaid Ahmad Bhat, Deputy Director Horticulture, Government of J&K, Abdul Hamid Bhat, Joint Director, Department of Horticulture, Government of J&K, Prof. (Dr.) Imtiyaz Ah Zargar, Fruit Science Technology, SKUAST Kashmir, Prof. (Dr.) Khalid Mushtaq, Professor, Division of Fruit Science, SKUAST Kashmir, M Amin, Technical Officer, Department of Horticulture, Government of J&K, Karan Sikri, Managing Director, Sikri Farms, Faiz Khurshid, Managing Director, Turey Orchards Pvt Ltd, Maajid Aslam Wafai, Agri-Entrepreneur, Director, Shaheen Agro Farms, Mr. Bashir Ahmad Naik, President, JKPICCA, Director, Al Noor Agri Fresh Pvt Ltd, Aweem Irshad, Agri-Entrepreneur, Managing Director, North Fresh Cold Chain and Owais Janwari, Director, Wular Food and Beverages

The CII J&K Apple Conclave 2025 successfully brought together stakeholders from across the agricultural landscape, aiming to collaborate and share insights into the future of the apple sector in Jammu and Kashmir.